Andrew Haden, a former acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California, was found dead this week within a federal building in downtown San Diego. Haden, 48, a California native, was discovered deceased on Wednesday at the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building, which houses the prosecutor's office he once led.
Law enforcement officials responded to the scene after Haden was reported missing prior to his discovery.
A Distinguished Career and Public Service
Haden was remembered as a dedicated public servant. A statement, likely from his former office, honored his character:
He was a beacon of light — full of laughter, friendship, integrity and an unwavering commitment to serving our community. We will honor his life and legacy by carrying his light forward, today and always.
Haden initially joined the U.S. Attorney's Office in 2010, serving in the San Diego office for 16 years. He twice held the position of acting U.S. Attorney for the district, stepping in to fill vacancies in both 2023 and 2025. Notably, he led the office after being appointed by then-President Donald Trump following the dismissal of U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath, who had been appointed by President Biden.
Tributes from the Legal Community
The news of Haden's passing prompted an outpouring of grief from the local legal community. Scott C. Carr, executive director of the San Diego County Bar Association, expressed his profound sadness regarding Haden's death. Carr recounted a conversation with Haden during a recent government shutdown, during which Haden discussed the impact on his staff and his dedicated efforts to support his team.
Andrew was always friendly with a kind word to say, which makes news of his passing all the more difficult. My thoughts are with his family and his colleagues at the Southern District of California. Our legal community lost a good one.
Defense attorney Jeremy Warren, who had faced Haden in court on previous occasions, described his death as a significant loss for the entire federal legal community in San Diego. Warren emphasized Haden's character, noting that despite their courtroom oppositions, they remained friends, which he called